Overview & Reviews

The original Mitsubishi Lancer never exactly blew us away. It was underpowered and not particularly entertaining to drive, its interior was simply OK and its styling was dull to boot. The second-generation Lancer has corrected two of those problems, especially with its aggressive new styling featuring a "shark nose" fascia. It's also kind of fun to drive, thanks to solid handling dynamics and (apart from the base engine) peppy engine choices.

All in all, count the Lancer as one model that has greatly improved from generation to generation. However, compared to more recently redesigned compact sedans, the Lancer's refinement, interior quality and fuel economy trail considerably. While the latest Lancer is an attractive, sporty sedan, we suggest thoroughly looking around at its many competitors.

Current Mitsubishi Lancer
Mitsubishi's stylish compact sedan is offered in DE, ES, SE, GT and Ralliart trims. The Sportback body style and high-performance Evolution are reviewed separately.

The two lower trims are front-wheel drive and powered by a 148-horsepower (143 hp in California-emissions-level states) inline-4. The all-wheel-drive SE and front-wheel-drive GT get a 2.4-liter 168-hp four. Should that not be enough, there is the Ralliart, which offers a 237-hp turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the Ralliart, while Mitsubishi's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional (except on Ralliart). The Ralliart comes with a quick-witted automated-clutch manual transmission.

In reviews of the Mitsubishi Lancer, we've been impressed with its secure handling, sporty styling and high-tech optional features. The Rockford Fosgate hard-drive-equipped audio system drew particularly high praise. On the downside, we've found the Lancer's base four-cylinder rather lacking in both power and refinement, and the CVT does nothing to help the situation -- in fact, we feel it saps power from the engine. We would therefore suggest sticking with the five-speed manual transmission or going with a GT, though fuel economy isn't impressive with any model. The Lancer's cabin also falls short of the segment leaders in terms of materials quality and lacks a telescoping steering wheel, which makes the car uncomfortable for many tall drivers.

Used Mitsubishi Lancer Models
The current Lancer generation dates back to the 2008 model year. Originally, only DE, ES and GTS trims were offered and all came with the base four-cylinder listed at 152 hp until 2011. The GTS was similar to the current car's GT, but it possessed a sport-tuned suspension. The 2.4-liter engine and the Ralliart showed up for '09. Stability control was available only on the Ralliart until 2010, when it became standard across the board along with four-wheel antilock brakes. ABS had previously been optional on the DE (that trim switched to four-wheel discs for 2010, but then reverted back to drums a year later). Some revised exterior and interior styling for certain trims and standard power door locks also showed up for 2010. The SE trim was new for 2012.

The first Mitsubishi Lancer was launched for the 2002 model year as a replacement for the Mirage sedan. It originally came in three trim levels: ES, O-Z Rally and LS. The ES came with a fine list of standard features, such as power accessories, a CD player and air-conditioning. The O-Z Rally trim offered a sportier look thanks to 15-inch O-Z alloy wheels and special interior trim upgrades. The LS distinguished itself with cruise control, ABS (not offered as an option on the ES or O-Z Rally) and remote keyless entry. All trims came with the 120-hp 2.0-liter engine and a five-speed manual. A four-speed automatic was standard on the LS and available as an option in the other two models.

Running changes included the 2004 debut of the Lancer Ralliart trim level, which boasted a 162-hp 2.4-liter engine, ABS, alloy wheels, sport exhaust and a sport-tuned suspension. Ralliart sedans came standard with a five-speed manual transmission. That year, Mitsubishi also introduced the Lancer Sportback wagon, available in LS or Ralliart trim. The 162-hp engine powered both wagon trim levels, but the Sportback was only available with a four-speed automatic. Mitsubishi discontinued the Lancer LS and both Sportback models in 2005. In 2006, the Lancer SE, featuring a sunroof, six audio speakers, cruise control and remote keyless entry, was introduced to freshen up the lineup.

In road tests, our editors found this Mitsubishi Lancer comfortable, though not especially fun to drive. Its power and performance weren't exactly overwhelming. But its spacious interior, particularly for rear passengers, and comfortable ride might appeal to those looking for a pleasant and roomy sedan at a decent price. The sport-tuned Lancer Ralliart, with its more powerful engine and tighter suspension, offers higher performance at an affordable price, making it the best choice of this Lancer generation.

Previous to the Lancer, Mitsubishi's small-car offering was the Mirage.

User Reviews:

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  Mitsubishi ES Lancer Automatic - 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By dinh - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Best car for the monney. Better look than CIVIC , TOYOTA, NISSAN

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  Lancer ES Review - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By bnnmalone - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I looked at several different makes of cars and took the Mitsubishi Lancer for a test drive after I tested the others. It was no comparison. The Lancer was more responsive and had plenty of pep. The vehicles exterior is very attractive and has smooth lines. I really liked the OZ version but for around $3,000.00 more I can live with it and add to it as I go. I couldnt be more pleased with this vehicle.

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  Its 99% Made in Japan - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Norbert Saska - December 21 - 10:00 am

  I drove in my 95 Eclipse to the dealership not thinking that Im leaving with a brand new Lancer. Ive bought cars before and Im really affraid of dealerships and its usually a whole day process, not at Coconut Creek Mits, I walked in at 6:30 left by 8PM. Now thats what I call service. Got a great deal on my trade in and on the brand new Lancer

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  Alls Good with the Lancer OZ - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Misha - December 17 - 2:00 am

  I really have to say, I love the car. It looks good and its fun to drive. Its not as fast as the impreza wrx but for the 2.0 engine its decent. I wish there were more accessories out there for it, but i think that in time that will increase.

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  Sweet car - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By oregonguy - December 15 - 8:33 pm

  Bought my car a week ago and love it. Got the car with sun and sound along with navigation. I suggest that you get all these features. The touring package is probably a waste of 1,000 bucks. Best handling car Ive driven. Comfortable seats and great feel for fabric only interior.

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  Great Ride - 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Lancealot - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Love it. This little car has attitude. It really performs great in traffic and responds well to all manuevers. I really am impressed with how well it stops and handels in wet weather. When I test drove it it really was the torque that caught my attention. A car that will go like that and give me 30mpg is a great thing. Enjoy!

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  Fun and Affordable - 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Boshi - November 27 - 5:23 am

  The GTS is nicely equipped for a vehicle under 25k with nice pick up and go especially in the midrange rpm. The interior is fairly sleek with blue accent instrument panel. The 9 speaker Rockford stereo system definitely thumps with a 10" woofer in the trunk. The mileage is pretty good for highway driving. Ive been averaging 28 mpg which is what i was getting on my ford focus but this car definitely has the fierce look to it. A real head turner.

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  Loved at first... - 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By carbuyer345 - November 9 - 4:48 am

  I bought my 2011 Lancer in 2012,and it now has 13,000 miles on it. I loved the car at first..The CVT takes some time to get used to, makes some interesting noises and lacks the power I would have liked. 3 months after getting the car, I started having issues with the car not starting. It would try and turn over and after about 3 tries, it finally would start..barely. I took it to the dealership and they said they couldnt help since it wouldnt do it while there. Around the same time as the starting issues happened, the car started to make a creaking noise when turning into parking spaces, streets, etc. Took it to the dealership and they told me the same thing. I am looking for a new car.

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  Great sporty sedan!! - 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By Christ - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Very nice ride and comfort for the size. Compares to cars much larger while still has handling of a sports sedan! Interior set up great to too. Easy to drive with great visibility.

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  I put down my ratte when I was 3 - 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
  By zerokool - November 5 - 12:40 am

  I overall was excited at the purchase of this car. Based on the reviews previously I had read & thought wow this car will have everything Ive been looking for. Afterthoughts of ownership - 1.5 yrs - car is lacking in quality at build. From day one I had asked the tech about engine noise above 2500 rpm. The cabin is always filled with noises of some kind. Recently, the rattles from the doors are killing me. I warn those who buy this vehicle that any car that gives you a rebate will come back to bite you in the end. When they give a 5k rebate, that means youre now 5k down in what you paid for it.